Sheriff Kelly Janke (JANG'-kee) late last year called for Manbeck's ouster, saying Manbeck did not work well with law enforcement. Janke also has criticized a proposed plea agreement with Rodney Brossart, a rural Lakota farmer involved in a summer-long standoff with law enforcement in 2011. County Commission Chairman Odell Flaagan also has criticized Manbeck.

Manbeck has not spoken publicly about the criticism. He says he plans to focus on his private law practice and tax preparation business in Lakota. He also serves as city attorney for Lakota and Michigan.